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National

Chuan Urges Government to Raise Elderly Stipend to 1,000 Baht

Democrat MP Chuan Leekpai urges the government to increase elderly stipends from the current 600-900 baht to 1,000 baht, citing studies showing the boost is financially feasible despite unchanged budget allocations totaling over 65 billion

2h ago Khaosod

On July 1, 2025 at 6:30 PM, Chuan Leekpai, Democrat Party list MP, addressed parliament regarding elderly allowance increases, referencing the government's April 9 policy statement on senior welfare. He urged budget review to reflect these changes, noting that current spending is allocated at over 65 billion baht but amounts remain unchanged at 600-900 baht. Chuan proposed raising the base amount to 1,000 baht, arguing that elderly citizens who worked their entire lives—laborers, farmers, and non-civil servants without pensions—deserve basic security in their final years. He noted proudly that he initiated the elderly allowance program during his first tenure as Prime Minister with smaller amounts of 200-300 baht for low-income seniors, which later expanded to all elderly under PM Abhisit Vejjajiva's administration.

Chuan emphasized that all political parties view this as good policy, but economic conditions and currency values have changed significantly since the program's inception. He cited studies by Abhisit and former Minister Korn Chatikavanij showing that 1,000 baht is feasible without excessive burden on the state, with budgetary figures of 64,000 million baht remaining consistent with current approaches. He requested the relevant committee review this proposal, emphasizing that supporting those who served the nation—workers, laborers, farmers—deserves priority attention.

Regarding the government education loan fund (Student Loan Fund), which Chuan initiated over 30 years ago, he noted it has genuinely reduced the social gap, enabling over 7 million people to access education who otherwise couldn't afford it. Last year's government allocation of 5 billion baht proved insufficient, requiring an additional 4.8 billion baht supplementation, bringing the total to 9 billion baht—for which he thanked the government. However, Chuan raised concerns about the revolving fund mechanism originating from off-budget sources, which has grown from 3 billion to 700 billion baht. He highlighted rising problems with loan defaults, particularly among unemployed borrowers, and requested educational institutions encourage repayment when graduates find employment.

Chuan expressed satisfaction that Deputy PM and Transport Minister Pipat refuses to tolerate corruption, and that the PM's Office budget minister rejects exploitation and 'long-hand' tactics. However, he stressed that implementation depends on genuine honesty and integrity. He concluded by emphasizing that conducting affairs with honesty and transparency allows the government to act righteously according to the King's principles.

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National

Thailand Pushes Ahead With TH-AI Passport Program

Thailand's Digital Economy Ministry secured a 33 percent budget increase to push forward with the TH-AI Passport program, which aims to provide free AI access to 5 million users while reducing government costs through bulk cloud purchasing.

2h ago Khaosod

During parliament's budget deliberations on July 1, 2025, Digital Economy and Society Minister Chaiyachok Chidchob defended his ministry's budget increase of 33.18 percent, citing three reasons for proceeding with the TH-AI Passport project: legal compliance, successful negotiations with contractors that benefit both the government and public, and testing that confirmed the product's high quality. He assured citizens expecting to become one of 5 million free AI users to wait only a bit longer, emphasizing efficient use of budgeted funds.

The 33.18 percent budget increase targets two areas: the Office for Promotion of Digital Economy (OPDE) and the Meteorological Department. The OPDE's increase funds bundled cloud procurement services that reduce costs through bulk purchasing and lower personnel and meeting expenses by up to 100 million baht.

Regarding why bundled procurement hasn't expanded to all departments, Chidchob cited three reasons: some units have prior budget commitments; certain functions differ from standard cloud services and require enhanced security; and departments like the Ministry of Interior, National Police Office, and Ministry of Defense require specialized data protection that prevents bundled procurement. However, he signaled intent to expand this procurement method in the future to achieve further savings.

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National

Defense Minister Defends Record Against Critic's 'Demon Minister' Jab

Defense Minister Adulyadej Boondharm dismissed accusations of corruption from a Bangkok MP, defending his 200 billion baht annual budget allocation that prioritizes national security, military modernization, and border patrols against human

2h ago Khaosod

At 5:50 PM on July 1, 2025, General Adulyadej Boondharm, Defense Minister, responded to remarks by Bangkok MP Ekkarat Udommanuay of the People's Party, who called him a 'demon minister.' Boondharm expressed discomfort with the characterization, noting that he rose through military ranks and has never engaged in wrongdoing as alleged. He stressed that if he were corrupt, he would not have advanced to his current position.

Regarding the 2025 defense budget, Boondharm stated the ministry received approximately 200 billion baht, a decrease of 957 million baht from the previous year, representing 5.4% of the national budget and 0.99% of GDP. The allocation includes 153 billion baht for recurring expenses and 50.4 billion baht for capital investment.

Boondharm outlined three spending priorities: national defense and security enhancement, developing military personnel and equipment capabilities, and disaster relief assistance. He detailed plans for air, ground, and naval defense readiness, with eight border defense units conducting patrols and checkpoint operations to combat human trafficking, drug smuggling, and transnational crime.

On volunteer military recruitment, he noted the program aims to bring in 100,000 soldiers annually, with 25,000 selected every four years to meet the annual requirement of 91,875 conscripts. Improved recruitment efforts could increase volunteers and potentially eliminate selection requirements.

Boondharm also addressed equipment modernization, emphasizing procurement of advanced weaponry and support for domestic defense contractors through a committee chaired by the permanent secretary.

Concerning frigate purchases, Boondharm acknowledged budget constraints have slowed acquisition but defended his integrity. He claimed if he were corrupt, he would never have reached this position and offered to discuss any specific wrongdoing. He stated he has discussed the matter twice with the Navy Commander, always prioritizing national benefit.

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National

Actress Karisa Gets Surprise Proposal in Los Angeles

Actress Karisa Springkert received a surprise proposal from her non-celebrity boyfriend at the Hollywood sign in Los Angeles on July 1, 2026, later unveiling her engagement ring at a Bangkok press conference.

2h ago Khaosod

Actress Karisa Springkert, known as Karisa The Face, shared the emotional moment of being proposed to, offering relationship advice on winning a man's heart. Her main concern: how to cry beautifully. She even considered asking actress Aff-Noon for tips.

Karisa has prepared to leave her single life behind after her non-celebrity boyfriend surprised her with a proposal at the Hollywood sign overlooking Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles, California, United States.

On July 1, 2026, Karisa appeared at a press conference launching the series "Rak" at Major Cineplex Sukhumvit (Ekamai) theater 3, where she displayed her engagement ring and recounted the proposal moment in a romantic atmosphere.

"When I put it on, I immediately thought of him and wondered: with this face, this skin, this hair—is this legendary? The entertainment industry's freshest-looking proposal. I just woke up to this happening to me," she said.

When he proposed, did you sense any signs beforehand?

"I didn't sense anything. The night before, I went out with Poo and came back around 4 AM. He texted asking if I was home. I thought it was sweet, but it was already 4 o'clock and I still wasn't back. He probably thought about what tomorrow would bring, but I was fully immersed in life. I'm glad he still loves me."

What time did you finally get home that night?

"I probably started sleeping around 6 AM. He started following up around 4 AM, and then came the shower and everything else."

How did the proposal happen?

"He suggested we go for a walk up the hill. I don't remember exactly, but it was around 9 AM and I didn't feel like going—I was so lazy. But I love him, so when he suggested it, I went. When a man says something, you have to do it. You have to be the most adorable person in the world."

You complained the whole way up because you'd only just fallen asleep?

"I complained the entire hike that after a 10-day trip, why did we have to hike on a hangover day? I felt nauseous the whole time. Then I felt refreshed when other people passed us going down, and he warned me about coyotes up ahead. I got excited to see them—they're like jackals, right? But he explained they're still dangerous. I thought, 'LA is amazing, but I didn't go up to see coyotes.' Then we went to enjoy the view.

After a while, he said something, and I turned to look. He was on one knee. I felt like the most beautiful person in the world. I never expected that moment. It felt so warm. After he proposed, he explained he wanted it to be just the two of us because my life is so full with work, meals, and friends. He wanted me to experience a moment he intentionally created—just us two."

Did your mind go blank when he proposed?

"No, I heard him propose and got confused. My first thought was: Am I grown up? Is everything ready? I'm ready. But I always feel like I'm 10 years old. I felt like proposal scenes were for adults. Am I grown up? That was my only question."

Can you remember what he said before kneeling?

"I remember just one sentence: 'Will you marry me?'"

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National

Thailand Sports Authority Promotes Director to Level 10 Advisor

The Thai Sports Authority board promoted Samjrsd Mingkhamlerds, director of the Office of the Executive Director, to Level 10 Advisor during a July 1 meeting chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Sompadsak Thongsri. The board also approved a sub

3h ago Khaosod

The Thai Sports Authority board voted to appoint Samjrsd Mingkhamlerds, director of the Office of the Executive Director, to the position of Level 10 Advisor. Deputy Prime Minister Sompadsak Thongsri presided over the third meeting of the Thai Sports Authority board for 2025, with Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Panjcharoenvarkul, SAT Director Dr. Kongsakd Yodmani, and board members attending at Conference Room 301, Building 1, Government House on July 1, 2025.

The meeting approved a draft order establishing a subcommittee to select recipients of the National Sports Day awards for 2025-2026. This follows a Cabinet resolution from April 15, 1986, designating December 16 of each year as National Sports Day, with ceremonies held annually to honor outstanding athletes and sports personnel.

The meeting also approved the selection of Thai Sports Authority committee members for appointment as chairman of the Thai Sports Relations Committee. The Sports Relations Committee held its first 2025 meeting on April 21, with approval of the process to appoint a new committee to replace the current one expiring June 20, 2025, with Air Vice Marshal Naiyapon Phirampakdi, chairman of the Thai Paralympic Committee, as chairman.

Additionally, the meeting approved the appointment of Samjrsd Mingkhamlerds, director of the Office of the Executive Director, to serve as Level 10 Advisor.

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National

Thai Military Shows ASEAN Border Fence Project To International Observers

Thai military showcased a border fence project with Cambodia to ASEAN observers in Chanthaburi province, stating construction complies with international law and is over 45% complete.

3h ago Khaosod

CHANTHABURI — The Thai military on Tuesday hosted a delegation of ASEAN observers at the Thai-Cambodian border in Chanthaburi province, where they were briefed on security measures and the progress of a border fence project, reaffirming that the construction complies with international law.

The nine-member delegation, comprising representatives from Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines accredited to Thailand, was led by Air Vice Marshal Chitphon Korkitsammakul, director of the International Affairs Office at the Defence Intelligence Department. Rear Admiral Udom Kulsiripanyo, chief of staff of the Chanthaburi and Trat Border Defence Command, welcomed the group and provided a security briefing.

The observers inspected the construction of the border security fence between boundary markers 52 and 59 in Pong Nam Ron district. Thai authorities said the project is more than 45% complete and is intended to strengthen border security and improve border management.

Addressing questions about a gap near boundary marker 52, the Chanthaburi Marine Task Force explained it was part of the engineering design and had been left open pending decisions by the Thailand-Cambodia Joint Boundary Commission. The opening will later be fitted with a removable panel to facilitate joint inspections of the boundary marker by Thai and Cambodian officials.

The military said the project is being carried out transparently, in accordance with international law, and with Cambodian observers present throughout the process. The ASEAN delegation also visited strategic locations along the border to assess measures against transnational crime and border management.

The Royal Thai Armed Forces said it remains committed to safeguarding Thailand's sovereignty while promoting peace and good relations with neighbouring countries in line with ASEAN cooperation.

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National

Thai Tennis Star Manacharya Advances at Wimbledon 2026

Thailand's Manacharya Swanggaew upset the world's 81st-ranked player 7-5, 6-0 to reach the third round of Wimbledon 2026 on July 1.

3h ago Khaosod

Manacharya Swanggaew, Thailand's 164th-ranked women's tennis player, continued her outstanding performance by defeating the world's 81st-ranked player to advance to the third round of the 2026 Wimbledon Grand Slam in England on July 1, 2026. Two Thai women's singles players advanced to the second round (64-player draw) of the prestigious tournament.

In her second-round match at 5:00 p.m. Thailand time, Manacharya, who upset Poland's 21st-ranked Magdalena Fręch 2-1 in the first round, faced the United States' Alicia Parks, ranked 81st globally. The pair had met once before in the WTA 125 Hong Kong tournament's first round, where Manacharya won 2-1 (5-7, 6-3, 6-4).

Manacharya started brilliantly despite some wavering late in the first set, capturing it decisively. In the second set, she played with confidence and dominant form, securing a 2-0 set victory with a scoreline of 7-5, 6-0 to successfully advance to the third round (32-player draw).

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Tourism

Fast Auto Show Thailand 2026 Opens With New Models

Fast Auto Show Thailand 2026 is now running through July 5 at BITEC Bangna, featuring new vehicle debuts from Honda, Mitsubishi, and Toyota, with special promotions including 0% interest rates and incentives up to 130,000 baht for electric

3h ago Khaosod

The mid-year car show "Fast Auto Show Thailand 2026" is now underway, showcasing new vehicle debuts including Honda City and Mitsubishi Attrage, with used cars available across all segments. The event runs through July 5 at BITEC Bangna and features several highlights. Honda has unveiled the new City sedan and hatchback versions to the public for the first time since their launch last week, with test drives available. The Honda e:N2 electric SUV is also available for test drives. Honda is running a special campaign called "Honda THE GRAND QUAKE DEAL" offering new customers special interest rates starting at 0%, complimentary Honda Exclusive Care for up to 5 years, and exclusive incentives ranging from 6,000 to 40,000 baht for Turbo and e:HEV models, or up to 130,000 baht for electric vehicles.

Mitsubishi is debuting the redesigned Attrage eco-sedan with a sportier appearance, featuring a new sporty front grille and enhanced safety features. The entry-level Active trim includes ADAS Camera with Forward Collision Warning and Lane Departure Warning systems, and both Active and Smart versions comply with EURO 6 emissions standards. Mitsubishi is also displaying the Xforce HEV compact SUV with their latest full-hybrid technology and seven driving modes, along with special promotions including 0% interest rates and fuel cards worth 10,000 baht.

Toyota showcases a diverse lineup of vehicles including the bZ4X, Corolla Cross, and Yaris Cross SUVs; the Camry sedan; commercial vehicles like Hilux Champ, Hilux Revo, Fortuner Leader S, and Land Cruiser FJ. The Land Cruiser FJ is a standout, priced at 1,289,000 baht, featuring a rugged design, 2.7-liter gasoline engine, body-on-frame construction with all-wheel drive, Toyota Safety Sense with adaptive high-beam headlights, 360-degree camera, and comprehensive driver assistance systems.

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National

Khon Kaen Resident Wins 30 Million Baht Savings Lottery

A Khon Kaen resident won 30 million baht in the Government Savings Bank's July 2026 special savings lottery draw, with prize money to be transferred to their account the following day.

3h ago Khaosod

A Government Savings Bank customer from the Phu Wiang branch in Khon Kaen province has won the grand prize of 30 million baht in the July 1, 2569 (2026) special 2-year savings lottery draw. The GSB Society Facebook page announced the good news and extended congratulations to the lottery winner on July 1, 2569 (2026). The first prize, valued at 30 million baht, goes to a customer of the Government Savings Bank's Phu Wiang branch in Khon Kaen province. The bank will transfer the prize money to the winner's savings account the day following the official prize announcement. Additional prize results can be checked on the website at https://to.gsb.or.th/c2FmI. Prize money for individuals is not subject to taxation. Anyone can potentially win in the next draw by purchasing the special 2-year savings lottery tickets available at all Government Savings Bank branches or through the MyMo application.

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Police

Man Surrenders After Dumping 200 Pig Heads in Water Supply

A man surrendered after 200 pig heads were illegally dumped into public water sources in Nakhon Ratchasima on June 29, contaminating supplies used for tap water production. The suspect, a meat processing company employee, claimed the spoile

3h ago Khaosod

One suspect surrendered to investigators at Bua Yai Police Station in Nakhon Ratchasima on July 1 after 200 pig heads were illegally dumped into public water sources used for tap water production. The dumping occurred at two locations: 140 heads in a pond within Sanam Luang Park in Bua Yai Municipality, and 60 heads at Takhok Weir in Ban Prang Subdistrict, Kong District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province. The incident, which took place on June 29, caused foul odors and affected water quality for residents.

According to Pol. Maj. Suranat Sakonwan, commander of Bua Yai Police Station, the suspect confessed that he and three colleagues were employees of a major meat processing company. They had transported 200 pig heads for sale, but the product spoiled. The company ordered them to dispose of it, yet due to negligence and poor judgment, they dumped the heads into the water instead, hoping to feed fish. The suspect apologized to all affected residents.

Three other employees are expected to surrender on July 2. Police remain skeptical of the suspect's account and plan to conduct separate interviews with the remaining three suspects to clarify the true reason for the dumping, the origin of the pig heads, and whether they were genuinely company employees. Criminal charges will be filed pending further investigation.

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Police

Spanish Man's Headaches Hide Rare Pork Tapeworm Brain Infection

A Spanish man's chronic headaches initially suggested brain cancer before high-resolution imaging revealed a rare pork tapeworm infection in his brain, treated with antiparasitic medications.

3h ago Khaosod

A 60-year-old Spanish man presented to the hospital with chronic headaches, initially suspected to be metastatic brain cancer after preliminary brain scans revealed unclear abnormalities that alarmed the medical team. High-resolution MRI imaging, however, revealed no tumor but instead discovered pork tapeworm larvae (Neurocysticercosis) inhabiting his brain.

A medical report published in Emerging Infectious Diseases confirmed the blood test diagnosis of Neurocysticercosis, or pork tapeworm brain infection, despite the patient having never traveled abroad. The infection occurred through ingestion of parasite eggs, which hatch into larvae, penetrate the intestinal wall, form fluid-filled cysts, and can migrate to various organs including the brain—distinctly different from consuming undercooked or raw pork where parasites typically mature into adult forms in the intestines.

Patients with brain tapeworm disease may experience headaches, seizures, dizziness, muscle weakness, speech difficulties, or in some cases memory loss. Without treatment, the condition can lead to increased intracranial pressure and persistent seizures, potentially proving fatal. Though rare in Europe, cases continue to be reported periodically.

The Spanish patient was treated with antiparasitic medications Albendazole and Praziquantel along with symptomatic care, following standard treatment protocols. The World Health Organization estimates approximately 2.8 million people are infected with Taenia solium annually, with most cases occurring in Asia, South America, and Eastern Europe. A previous widely-shared case involved a patient with tapeworms dispersed throughout the body, likely from consuming raw or undercooked pork contaminated with parasite larvae.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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